Abstract

Goodpasture's syndrome is an autoimmune disease of unknown aetiology. Viral and streptococcal infections (1, 2) and exposure to hydrocarbon fumes (3) have been suggested as possible causal agents. Familial occurrence has been reported in only two instances (4, 5).

In our study of identical twins with Goodpasture's syndrome, the following methods were used. Renal biopsies: percutaneous renal biopsies were processed and examined by light microscopy and fluorescence microscopy using fluorescein-conjugated antisera against IgG, IgM, IgA, C3, and fibrinogen. Plasma exchange: 4-litre plasma exchanges were done on an Aminco Celltrifuge.